B1G commissioner Kevin Warren shocked the college football world when he decided to leave for the Chicago Bears’ president and CEO job on Thursday. The job recently opened up when Ted Phillips retired.

Wisconsin Director of Athletics Chris McIntosh issued a statement on the matter shortly after.

“I’ve enjoyed getting to know Commissioner Warren over the last few years and I’m incredibly happy for him as he takes on a new challenge,” McIntosh said. “He has been extremely gracious to me and my family and I appreciated the way he welcomed me into the Big Ten leadership group.”

Warren was at the helm of the conference for three years as the B1G’s first Black commissioner and will now be the first in his role with the Bears.

”Our conference is in a strong position and set up for continued success in an ever-changing collegiate landscape,” McIntosh said. “He is a class individual and we wish him well.